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GLOBAL SUMMIT
(IN)STABILITY AT THE FRONTIERS
Family Business in an Age of Shifting Grounds
May 26 - 29, 2026 NICE - FRANCE
The STEP Project Global Consortium Family Business Summit 2026 committee warmly welcomes the family business community of scholars, family owners, now- and next-gen members, and practitioners to congregate, connect, and contribute in France in May 2026!
(IN)STABILITY AT THE FRONTIERS
May 26 - 29, 2026 Nice, FRANCE
Family Business in the Age of Shifting Grounds
The Summit is convening the best minds in academia, business families and family business consultants to connect, share ideas and learn new strategies for achieving their mutual goals. With keynotes, workshops, expert panels, and discussions, we’ll explore essential and emerging family business topics. We aim to create a rich exchange of insights and experiences. Our goal is to ensure there is something new for every participant—be part of making it happen!
CONTINUITY
RESILIENCE
PURPOSE
INNOVATION
KEYNOTE SPEECH.
“Operating Under Uncertainty: What Family Firms Can Learn from the Cognitive Sciences”
Thomas Zellweger
Professor at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland
KEYNOTE PANEL.
“Family Business 2040: Reimagining Research, Redefining Practice”
Distinguished Guests
Moderator
Andrea Calabrò
SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy
Tom McGinness
JTC Private Office, UK
Prof. Evelyn Micelotta
University of Vermont, USA
Elisabetta Rinaldi
3rd Generation, Rinaldi Group, Italy
PANEL SESSIONS.
PRACTICE PANEL DISCUSSION 1
“Navigating Challenges in Family Business in Times of Multi-Transition. A Grounded and Transdisciplinary Perspective”
Distinguished Guests
Moderator
Mrs. Florence Jeantet
Member of the Board, SIGCombibloc, Past Chief Sustainability Officer, DANONE, France
Dr. Daniele Zappala
Avvenire e RadioinBlu journalist, Researcher in Political Geography, France & Italy
Mr. Antonin Molle
Co-Founder and VP of Products, Open Age Initiative; Chairman of the Board, Bright Cyde - Mulliez Family Association's ecosystem, France
Prof. Maria Giuseppina Bruna
IPAG Business School, France
PRACTICE PANEL DISCUSSION 2
“Family Enterprise in Motion: Heritage, Talent Management, and Succession”
Distinguished Guests
Moderator
Cinzia Colapinto
IPAG Business School, France
Delphine Roux
Marketing Manager, Parfums Galimard, France
Marc Raiola
General Director, Interima, France
PRACTICE PANEL DISCUSSION 3
“Digitalizing Trust, Preserving Legacy: Family Business Governance Across Generations and Contexts”
Moderator
Distinguished Guests
Prof. Carlo Salvato
Bocconi University, Italy
Enrico Viora
Trusted Family
Basma Khoja
King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
Jean Fabre
5th Generation Fragonard Parfumeur, France
PRACTICE PANEL DISCUSSION 4
“Between Tradition & Innovation: Wellbeing as a Driver”
Distinguished Guests
Moderator
Matteo D'Arienzo
3rd Generation Rinaldi Group SB Spa, Italy
Ilaria D'Arienzo
3rd Generation Rinaldi Group SB Spa, Italy
Gianmaria Costantino
2nd Generation The Italian Sea Group, Italy, Italy
Prof. Sabine Rau
Family Enterprise Legacy Institute, University of Ottawa, Canada
PRACTICE PANEL.
“Discover the STEP Project Global Consortium (SPGC)”
Chaired by
Andrea Calabrò
SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy
Ms. Arpita Vyas
STEP Project Global Consortium
Ana C. Gonzalez
G. Valley State University
SOCIAL EVENTS.
OPENING BEACH RECEPTION, Le Galet, Nice (May 27, 2026)
Join us for a relaxed opening beach reception on the French Riviera. Set right by the sea, this is a moment to meet, reconnect, and ease into the Summit in a beautiful and informal setting.
In the heart of the iconic Promenade des Anglais, you will experience the authentic atmosphere of the Riviera at its finest. A unique setting where the energy of Nice meets the elegance of the Mediterranean coast.
As the sun sets over Nice, you will enjoy a curated selection of food and drinks, accompanied by music and a warm, welcoming atmosphere designed to bring people together from the very start.
A surprise/experience will add a special touch to the evening. Guess what?
A simple and memorable way to begin the Summit journey.
GALA DINNER, Casino Ruhl, Nice (May 28, 2026)
To evoke the spirit of Les Années Folles (the Roaring Twenties), we have planned an evening inspired by the atmosphere of 1920s Nice, a period of extraordinary cultural and social effervescence marked by freedom, creativity, and a renewed desire for enjoyment.
With its parties, music, and vibrant social life, the city became a meeting point for an international clientele in search of leisure and elegance.
The gala dinner will take place at the Casino Ruhl, a symbolic venue that echoes this unique atmosphere. The casino retains the name of the historic Hôtel Ruhl, renowned for its spectacular parties and refined style, now gone but still alive in the city’s memory.
It will be an opportunity to rediscover, if only for one evening, that distinctive energy of lights, music, and conviviality that made the French Riviera an icon of Les Années Folles.
VENUE AND DATES.
REGISTRATION AND FEES.
We would encourage you to attend the SPGC Global Family Business Summit, by registering and/or submitting your work CLICK HERE
SPGC Affiliate – Academic:
• Early bird (before 28/02/2026): 500,00 €
• Regular (after 28/02/2026): 600,00 €
Non-SPGC Affiliate – Academic:
• Early bird (before 28/02/2026): 600,00 €
• Regular (after 28/02/2026): 700,00 €
For Practitioners:
• Early bird (before 28/02/2026): 650,00 €
• Regular (after 28/02/2026): 750,00 €
For Doctoral Student:
• Early bird (before 28/02/2026): 350,00 €
• Regular (after 28/02/2026): 450,00 €
Gala Dinner - Guest Ticket:
• Early bird (before 28/02/2026): 150,00 €
• Regular (after 28/02/2026): 200,00 €
1 day pass for Business Professional
• 300,00 €
ORGANIZER.
GOLD SPONSOR.
We would like to thank our Gold Sponsors for their valuable support of the 2026 SPGC - FERC Global Family Business Summit.
SILVER SPONSOR.
We would like to thank our Silver Sponsor for their valuable support for the 2026 SPGC Global Family Business Summit
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COMPANY VISITS.
CHAIRS.
Prof. Maria Giuseppina Bruna
(IPAG Business School, France)
Prof. Evelyn Micelotta
(University of Vermont, USA)
Prof. Andrea Calabrò
(SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy)
Prof. James Davis
(Utah State University, USA)
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE.
Arpita Vyas
(SPGC)
Elisa Conti
(IPAG Business School)
Stefania Masè
(IPAG Business School)
Eric Clinton
(Dublin City University)
Giang Nguyen
(IPAG Business School)
Cinzia Colapinto
(IPAG Business School)
Ana C. Gonzalez
(G. Valley State University)
ACCOMMODATION.
Suggested hotels for attendees:
HÔTEL NOVOTEL NICE CENTRE VIEUX NICE****
The Novotel Nice Centre Vieux Nice guarantees truly relaxing moments during your business or family stay on the Côte d'Azur thanks to its rooftop pool and 360° views of the old town, the sea, and the hills. Savor our chef's Niçois flavors on the garden terrace and enjoy a nightcap by moonlight! With five naturally lit meeting rooms, this Nice hotel also offers fiber optic internet to stay connected.
The 180-room hotel is located in the heart of the old town, close to Place Garibaldi, the port, the flower market, and the
beach, and adjacent to the Palais des Expositions.
Address: P. De L'europe 8-10, 06300 Nice
Located in the city center, the Hôtel Apollinaire stands on the famous Boulevard Dubouchage.
Its elegant façade houses a high-end establishment with 95 rooms and suites, perfect for a family or business stay.
Its sunny patio invites you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or a drink outside.
With its 92 rooms and 3 suites, the Hôtel Apollinaire meets the needs of all travelers, whatever the reason for their stay on the Côte d'Azur. Whether you're traveling alone, as a couple, or with your family, you'll find the room that suits you among our four categories: Classic, Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe.
Address: 25 Bd Dubouchage, 06000 Nice
With over a century’s history, the Best Western Plus Hotel Masséna Nice is today one of the finest 4-star boutique hotels in the city. Its famous Belle Époque façade reflects a rich heritage, welcoming guests into a warm, friendly atmosphere that blends traditional elegance with contemporary style.
Key Highlights: Located in the heart of Nice, it offers a premium experience just steps from the beach and luxury boutiques.
The Rooms: The hotel features 110 rooms and suites, ranging from comfortable "Classic" options to "Deluxe" rooms with private terraces. Each space is soundproofed and fully equipped, ensuring a peaceful stay in a high-character setting.
Address: 58 rue Gioffredo - 06000 Nice
Located in the heart of Nice, just steps from Place Masséna, Hotel Aston La Scala is a stylish 4-star hotel known for its perfect mix of Art Deco charm and modern comfort.
Panoramic Rooftop: Features the "Moon Bar," a seasonal pool, and 360° views over the city and sea.
Prime Location: Overlooking the Promenade du Paillon.
The Rooms: The hotel offers 149 modern, soundproofed rooms ranging from cozy Standard/Privilege rooms (courtyard view) to Exclusive rooms with stunning views of the park. For extra luxury, Deluxe Terrace rooms and spacious Suites offer private
outdoor spaces and dedicated lounge areas.
Address: 12 Felix Faure, 06000 Nice
Located in the trendy Riquier district near the Port, Mama Shelter Nice is a vibrant 4-star hotel known for its eclectic design, artistic frescoes, and lively social atmosphere.
Rooftop Hub: Features a seasonal pool, a bar, and an outdoor kitchen with panoramic views.
Unique Style: A modern boutique hotel that blends Mediterranean warmth with urban pop culture.
The Rooms: The hotel offers 102 stylish rooms ranging from Small to XXL. Each room features 5-star bedding, organic amenities, and large Smart TVs with free movies, providing a high-tech yet cozy retreat.
Address: 21 boulevard de Riquier, 06300 Nice
The Hôtel Vendôme*** has retained its neoclassical architectural style, halfway between sublime and picturesque, reflecting an authentic 19th-century building.
Its prime location, near the Promenade des Anglais, Boulevard Dubouchage, and the train station.
All rooms are equipped with quality beds to ensure a restful sleep. Different sizes are available, depending on the room category chosen.
Safes are also available in all rooms, as well as a courtesy tray with a kettle. Welcome products are also available in our bathrooms.
Address: 26 Rue Pastorelli, 06000 Nice
Set in a classic 19th-century building, Hotel Esprit d'Azur is a welcoming 3-star boutique hotel located near the Acropolis Convention Center and the Old Port. It is highly rated for its authentic local feel and excellent value.
Peaceful Vibe: Features a quiet inner courtyard and a warm, personalized service typical of a family-run hotel.
Traditional Style: Combines historic Niçois architecture (high ceilings) with modern, renovated interiors.
The Rooms: The hotel offers soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms ranging from Classic/Superior to spacious Family Rooms (up to 4 people). Each room is uniquely decorated and equipped
with high-speed Wi-Fi and modern amenities.
Address: 26 Rue Pastorelli, 06000 Nice
HÔTEL CAMPANILE NICE CENTRE ACROPOLIS***
Located in the center of Nice, the hotel is just a stone's throw from the Old Town and its flower market.
The hotel is open 24/7, with free luggage storage available. Direct access to the airport in 30 minutes via Tram 2 towards Port Lympia.
This hotel offers modern, air-conditioned, and soundproofed rooms, designed to provide optimal comfort during your business or leisure stays. Each room is carefully equipped to meet all your needs: Free high-speed Wi-Fi, Flat-screen TV, Courtyard tray, Private bathroom, Air conditioning
Address: 58 Bd Risso, 06300 Nice
Located near Place Garibaldi and the Old Town, this 2-star residence is perfect for travelers seeking independence and convenience. It combines the comfort of an apartment with essential hotel services.
Fully Equipped Studios: Each room features a private kitchenette, allowing you to cook and manage your own schedule.
Top Connectivity: Situated right on the tram line, providing quick access to the beach, the port, and the train station.
The Rooms: The residence offers functional, air-conditioned studios for up to 2 people. They are designed for efficiency, featuring a work desk, dining area, high-speed Wi-Fi,
and a bathroom with a shower.
Address: 42 boulevard Risso, 06300 Nice
HÔTEL IBIS STYLES NICE CENTRE PORT***
Located in the heart of the vibrant Port district, this 3-star hotel stands out for its modern "maritime" design and its practical, all-inclusive approach.
Vibrant Atmosphere: A fresh, colorful, and casual environment perfect for active travelers and families.
The Rooms: The hotel features modern and functional rooms equipped with the signature "Sweet Bed" for maximum comfort. Options include Standard Rooms (optimized for work and rest) and Family Suites, which provide creative layouts for
parents and children.
Address: 8 Rue Emmanuel Philibert, 06300 Nice
PRACTICE PANEL DISCUSSION 3
“Digitalizing Trust, Preserving Legacy: Family Business Governance Across Generations and Contexts”
INFO & CONTACTS.